Relationship to Other Applications
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of application S/N 07/537,694, filed June 14, 1990
entitled "Numeral Display Device".
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention.
[0002] The present invention relates to a numeral display device wherein individual segments
arranged to comprise each numeral may be selectively lightened, darkened, or changed
in color from the surrounding background in order to make the desired numeral visible.
In particular, the present invention relates to a numeral display device having self-storing
segments.
2. Prior Art.
[0003] The system of seven segment numerals has heretofore been widely used, both with manually
changeable segments and with liquid crystal displays. The individual segments are
lightened or darkened depending on the desired numeral to be formed from 0 to 9. Liquid
crystal displays have been found to be adequate for small devices viewed at short
distances but are difficult to see in large devices viewed at longer distances.
[0004] The present invention is not constrained to small displays and may readily be adapted
to large highway signs. Additionally, the present invention provides a display device
that may be remotely controlled.
[0005] US-A- 2,986,982 discloses a pair of spaced glass plates. A center opening is connected
by a tube to a pump in order to move opaque fluid from a tank. In the normal pumping
condition, light cannot pass through the fluid. To open, the pump sends air through
the tube which fills the space and allows light to pass therethrough.
[0006] US-A- 4,796,370 discloses a multi-element display wherein each element may be reversibly
rotated about a mounting rod by an electric motor.
[0007] US-A- 4,164,824 illustrates one of the problems overcome in the present invention.
A self-storing display allows each shutter to be received in a linear pocket so that
it may be manually slid to a retracted position where the back plate is revealed.
When the shutter is retracted, there must be sufficient space behind the background
face to accommodate it.
[0008] US-A- 3,273,270 discloses a segmented display wherein each segment is longitudinally
divided and pivots to fold together to conceal its face. A linear actuator is shown
in Fig. 20 and 21 having a pinion gear that meshes with a rack.
[0009] US-A- 4,777,747 provides each segment of a seven segment display with a guide rim
or flange overlapping edge to slidably receive an element that may be manually inserted
or removed.
[0010] US-A- 4,627,182 provides a two sided display element that may be rotated by the force
of voltage applied to a crystal.
[0011] US-A- 4,539,768 shows a seven segment display with a flap for each segment that may
be manually pivoted to cover or uncover with assistance of spring-loaded pivots.
[0012] US-A- 4,796,370 shows a seven segment display wherein each segment has a transverse
axle that may be rotated by a small electric motor.
[0013] US-A- 3,764,200 discloses a cylindrical reflecting surface with an axially extending
slot that has a flat planar element movable up or down to make the surface appear
illuminated.
[0014] US-A- 3,814,506 provides panels having a pair of outer sheets with a third, center
sheet slidably sandwiched therebetween. The center sheet is movable by a cam and lever
mechanism.
[0015] US-A- 3,789,525 discloses a pair of resilient film loops wherein one end of each
loop is fixed in contiguous relation to a movable frame so that the film loops may
be brought into and out of a visible position.
[0016] US-A- 4,220,948 provides a sliding shutter between front and back plates with a tab
extending through an opening to manually slide the shutter.
[0017] Accordingly, it is an object and purpose of the present invention to provide a numeral
display device which is compact in design and wherein its individual segments are
self-storing and easily changeable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0018] The numeral display device includes a background face from which the numerals contrast.
Each numeral comprises seven discreet segments which are arranged to form all of the
numerals from 0 through 9.
[0019] Each segment includes a transparent front outer pane and a rear inner pane which
is parallel to and spaced from the outer pane. A spacer or spacers keep the inner
pane in spaced relation to the outer pane in order to form a continuous pocket. A
first portion of the pocket is aligned with the background face and is visible from
the exterior of the display device. A second portion of the pocket is in angular relation
to the first portion and is not visible but interior to the device.
[0020] A thin flexible film is allowed to travel within the pocket provided between the
panes. When the film fills the first portion, the segment will match the color of
the surrounding background face of the display. Conversely, when the film is withdrawn
from the first portion of the pocket, the inner pane will be visible and the segment
will contrast with the background.
[0021] In one embodiment, a slot is provided in the front outer pane on the second portion
so that the film is accessible. Affixed to the film where the slot provides an opening
is a flat rack having protruding teeth. A motor having an extending rotating shaft
terminates in a pinion gear which mesh with the teeth on the rack. Rotation of the
pinion gear by the motor moves the rack linearly and, in turn, moves the film.
[0022] In a second embodiment, the extending shaft of the motor terminates in a pulley which
rotates rollers in contact with the film to move the film into or out of the first
portion.
[0023] In a third embodiment, a metal strip is affixed to the leading edge of the film.
A magnet manipulated by an operator exterior to the display device moves the metal
strip and the accompanying film into or out of the first portion.
[0024] In a fourth embodiment, each pocket is fluid tight and filled with a fluid. The film
may be moved by a motor engaging an actuator arm to move a magnet that travels within
a track exterior to the pocket. The magnet attracts a metal guide affixed to the film
within the pocket. Alternatively, a magnet exterior to the display device may be manipulated
by an operator to move the film.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0025]
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a numeral display device constructed
in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 2 is a sectional view taken along section line 2-2 of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is an enlarged view taken from the dashed circular line shown in Figure 2;
Figure 4 is a sectional view taken along section line 4-4 of Figure 3;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a numeral display device
constructed in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 6 is a sectional view taken along section line 6-6 of Figure 5;
Figure 7 is an enlarged view showing the portion within the circular dashed line in
Figure 6;
Figure 8 is a sectional view taken along section line 8-8 of Figure 7;
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a numeral display device constructed
in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 10 is a sectional view taken along section line 10-10 of Figure 9;
Figure 11 is an enlarged view of a portion indicated by the circular dashed line in
Figure 10;
Figure 12 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a numeral display device
constructed in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 13 is a sectional view taken along section line 13-13 of Figure 12;
Figure 14 is a partial sectional view taken along section line 14-14 of Figure 13;
Figure 15 is a partial sectional view taken along section line 15-15 of Figure 14;
Figure 16 illustrates a modification of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure
12; and
Figure 17 is a partial sectional view taken along section line 17-17 of Figure 16.
Detailed Description Of The Preferred Embodiments
[0026] Referring to the drawings in detail, Figure 1 shows a highway sign structure 10 utilizing
the invention. The sign structure 10 would be adjacent a street or highway in order
to be visible to passing motorists. In addition to the visible display seen in Figure
1, the structure 10 may include an additional identical display (not shown in Figure
1) on the reverse side so that a display would be visible to motorists from both sides
of the highway.
[0027] The sign structure 10 includes a frame 12. The structure 10 may also include a brand
or vendor identification display 14 as well as a product identification display 16.
In the present embodiment, the numeral display device 20 displays the price of motor
fuel. It may be necessary to change the posted price of the fuel several times per
day. At the same time, the size of the structure is such that the numeral display
device may not be easily reached by personnel from the ground.
[0028] The numeral display device 20 includes a background face 22 from which the numerals
displaying the price contrast. The background face may be constructed of aluminum,
plastic, or other thin, lightweight material. The display may also be back-lighted
from the interior of the frame 12. Each numeral comprises seven discreet segments.
The individual segments may be lightened, darkened or changed in color from the surrounding
background color. The segments are arranged to form all of the arabic numerals from
0 through 9. For example, each of the seven segments will be visible in order to form
the numeral 8.
[0029] It should also be appreciated that the present invention can be easily adapted to
display letters or other elements.
[0030] One embodiment 24 of the present invention is shown in Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4. Figure
2 is a sectional view taken along section line 2-2 of Figure 1. Internal illumination
from a light source 26 makes the display device easily visible at night.
[0031] Figure 3 shows an enlarged view of one segment. It will be appreciated that each
segment operates in a similar fashion and the description of one segment herein applies
to the other segments. Each segment includes a transparent front outer pane 30. A
rear inner pane 32 is parallel to and spaced from the outer pane. In the present embodiment,
a color will be chosen for the inner pane which contrasts with the background face
22. The inner pane and outer pane may be constructed of a rigid plastic material such
as Lexan. A spacer or spacers 34 keep the inner pane in spaced relation to the outer
pane in order to form a continuous pocket 36.
[0032] A first portion 40 of the panes 30 and 32 and the resulting continuous pocket 36
are aligned with an opening in the background face 22. This first portion 40 is visible
from the exterior and constitutes one of the segments visible in the display.
[0033] A second portion 42 of the panes 30 and 32 and the resulting continuous pocket 36
is in an angular relation to the first portion 40. In the present embodiment, the
second portion 42 is at a 90 degree angle to the first portion 40. The second portion
is not visible from the exterior of the display and is interior to the frame 12. As
will be appreciated from the description herein, the angular relationship of the first
portion to the second portion allows each segment to take up reduced space along the
background face 22.
[0034] A film of mylar or other thin, flexible material 44 is allowed to travel within the
continuous pocket provided between the panes. The film 44 will be opaque and of the
same color as the background face 22. When the film 44 fills the first portion 40,
the segment will match the color of the surrounding background face of the display.
Conversely, when the film is slidably withdrawn from the first portion of the pocket,
the inner pane 32 will be visible. The segment will then contrast with the background
and will be visible from the exterior. Alternatively, the device could be constructed
so that the film could be of a contrasting color to the background and the inner pane
could be of the same color.
[0035] Each segment may be secured to the background face 22 through fasteners 46. Thus
secured, the background face provides a barrier to water or dirt entering the interior
of the device 20.
[0036] Figure 4 is a sectional view taken along section lines 4-4 of Figure 3. A slot 50
is provided in the outer pane 30 along the second portion 42 so that the film 44 is
accessible. Affixed to the film where the slot provides an opening is a flat rack
52 having protruding teeth.
[0037] With reference to Figures 2, 3, and 4, an electric motor 53 has an extending rotating
shaft 54. The small, lightweight motor may be mounted on the second portion 42. A
low voltage direct current motor may be powered by household alternating electric
current passed through a transformer 55. The rotating shaft terminates in a pinion
gear 56 which mesh with the teeth on the rack 52. Accordingly, rotation of the pinion
gear 56 by the motor moves the rack 52 linearly. Movement of the rack 52, in turn,
slidably moves the film 44 within the continuous pocket.
[0038] When the gear 56, moves in the direction indicated by arrow 58, the film 44 will
move into the first portion 40. Conversely, when the gear moves in the direction indicated
by arrow 60, the film will move out the first portion 40.
[0039] The film 44 will be flexible enough to easily negotiate the angle between the first
portion and the second portion as it travels.
[0040] As seen in Figure 4, the spacers 34, positioned along the edges of the panes, are
opaque so as not to allow leakage of light from the light source 26 interior to the
display to the exterior.
[0041] The motor 53 will be connected to a control mechanism (not shown) which will control
power to the motor and control its direction. The control mechanism will control each
motor corresponding to the seven segments that comprise a numeral.
[0042] Switches (not shown) for the control mechanism may be remotely located so that the
numerals may be quickly and conveniently changed as desired.
[0043] Another, second embodiment 58 is shown in Figures 5, 6, 7 and 8. The frame 12′ and
background face 22′ would be similar to the previously described embodiment. A sectional
view, taken along section lines 6-6 of Fig. 5, can be seen in Fig. 6. Relays and transformers
60 bring low voltage power to each electric motor 62. Internal illumination from a
light source 63 makes the display easily visible at night. With particular reference
to Figs. 7 and 8, the rotating shaft 64 of the motor 62 terminates in a first pulley
66 which moves a continuous belt 68. Movement of the belt rotates a second pulley
70 which rotates a pair of drive wheels 74 that rest snugly against the film 44′.
Opposite the drive wheels 74 are free rotation wheels 76 which keep the film 44′ snug
against the drive wheels. The free rotation wheels are held in place by brackets 78.
[0044] Rotation of the drive wheels 74 by the motor 62 will cause the film 44′ to slide
within the continuous pocket 36′. As previously described, the film 44′ will be flexible
enough to negotiate the angle between the first portion and second portion.
[0045] A further, third embodiment 80 is shown in Figures 9, 10, and 11. The frame 12˝ and
background face 22˝ from which the numerals contrast would be similar to the previous
embodiments. As seen in the sectional view of Figure 10, there are no motors or mechanized
means to move the films 44˝. Internal illumination from a light source 82 makes the
display easily visible at night.
[0046] As best seen in Figure 11, a thin metal strip 84 is affixed to each film 44˝ at its
front edge. When a magnet 86, exterior to the display 20˝, is moved near the back-ground
face 22˝, the metal strip 84 and its accompanying film 44˝, will be caused to move
within the continuous pocket 36˝. Since the outer pane 30˝ is composed of a plastic
material, the magnetic field passes easily therethrough. A pad 87 within the continuous
pocket 36˝ retains the film 44˝ in place until moved by the magnet.
[0047] The magnet 86 may be attached to a pole 88, so that an operator (not shown) can easily
change the segments of the display.
[0048] A further, fourth embodiment 90 and a modification thereof is illustrated in Figures
12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17. As best seen in Figure 12, the frame 12‴ and background
face 22‴ from which the numerals contrast would be similar to the previous embodiments
discussed. The brand or vendor identification display 14‴, as well as the product
display 16‴, might also be similar to the previously described embodiments.
[0049] Figure 13 provides a partial sectional view taken along section line 13-13 of Figure
12. In the embodiment shown in Figure 13, there are no motors to move the individual
films 44‴. A thin metal strip 84′ is affixed to each film at its leading, front edge.
When a magnet such as magnet 86 (not shown in Figure 13), is moved near the background
face exterior to the display, the metal strip 84′ and its accompanying film will be
caused to move.within the continuous pocket 36‴.
[0050] As in the previous embodiments, each pocket is composed of a front outer pane 30‴
and a rear inner pane 32‴. Since the outer pane 30˝ is composed of a thin plastic
material, the magnetic field passes easily through. In the embodiment 90 shown, the
edges of the panes forming a pocket are sealed so as to form a liquid-tight pocket.
[0051] It has been found in some applications of the invention that the space within the
pocket causes some distortion when viewing from the exterior due to refraction of
light. Accordingly, the pockets 36‴ may be filled with a fluid, which may be transparent,
so that the films 44‴ or the inner pane 32‴ are readily visible. It has been found
that by filling with a liquid that is transparent, the distortion is eliminated.
[0052] Each of the segments may be formed by a mold process wherein the segments terminate
in flanges 94. After liquid has been inserted into the pocket, the flanges are closed
with a liquid tight sealant 96.
[0053] The embodiment 90 may also include a reservoir tank 98 in fluid communication with
the pocket. In the event the pockets 36‴ require refilling, the tank 98 has an opening.
The tank is positioned so that gravity draws the fluid in the tank into the pockets.
The individual pockets 36‴ may be interconnected with fluid through holes 99 so that
one reservoir tank acts as a supply for all pockets.
[0054] In the event that a space exists between the background face 22‴ and the outer panes
30‴, fluid may also be placed therebetween.
[0055] Figure 14 shows a partial sectional view taken along section line 14-14 of Figure
13. An optional magnet track 100 shown will be described in connection with a further
modification. Within each pocket 36‴ extending from one of the panes is a corresponding
interior track 102. The magnet track 100 is parallel to and aligned with the interior
track 102. A metal guide 103 affixed to the film 44‴ is allowed to travel within the
interior track 102. The back flanges 94 as well as the sealant therebetween can readily
be seen.
[0056] Figure 15 is a partial sectional view taken along section line 15-15 of Figure 14.
The guide rails of the tracks 100 and 102 can easily be seen in Figure 15.
[0057] Figures 16 and 17 provide a further modification on the embodiment shown in Figures
13, 14 and 15. A mechanized means is provided to move the film 44‴ within each fluid
filled pocket 36‴. A magnet 104 is allowed to travel slidably within the magnet track
100. As the magnet moves within the track, the magnetic field will cause the metal
guide 103 attached to the film to move. Accordingly, as the magnet 104 moves, the
film 44‴ will move within the pocket.
[0058] An actuator arm 106 has one end 108 pivotally mounted to the magnet 104. The actuator
arm is allowed to move about a pivot 110 located between the ends of the actuator
arm. The pivot 110 is affixed to the outer pane 30‴. The opposite end 112 of the actuator
arm 106 is pivotally connected to an electric motor 114. The electric motor drives
a shaft 116 which moves the shaft axially. The shaft might have a screw thread (not
shown) which translates rotational movement to axial movement. Axial movement of the
shaft 116 will cause the end 112 of the actuator arm to move, thereby causing a corresponding
action of the opposite end 108 of the actuator arm. Accordingly, the magnet attached
to the actuator arm 108 will move within the track 100. Movement of the magnet 104
within the track 100 will cause movement of the metal guide 103 attached to the film
44‴. The motor 114 might be run on low voltage direct current or, alternatively, by
household alternating current and attached to a power source by lines 118.
[0059] The electric motor 114 might be connected to a control mechanism (not shown) which
will control power to the motor and control its direction. The control mechanism will
control each motor corresponding to the seven segments that comprise a numeral.
[0060] A salient feature of the present embodiment may be observed if the electric motor
114 or actuator arm 106 malfunctions. An operator may manually manipulate a magnet
86 exterior to the display. If strong enough, the magnet 86 will attract the metal
strip 84′ and separate the metal guide 103 from the magnet 104. Accordingly, the film
may be inserted or withdrawn manually even if the mechanized means for doing so fails.
1. A numeral display device (20) having at least one visible face (22) which comprises
a plurality of segments, characterized in that:
each segment has a transparent, front, outer pane (30) and a spaced, parallel,
rear, inner pane (32), said outer pane and said inner pane forming a pocket (36),
a first portion (40) of said pocket being aligned with and visible in said face (22)
and a second portion (42) of said pocket in angular relation to said first portion;
and in that said device further comprises:
a plurality of flexible films (44), one said film received in each said pocket
(36); and
means to slidably insert and withdraw each said film from each said first portion
of each said pocket so that each said segment will either contrast with or match said
face (22).
2. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 1 wherein said first portion of said
pocket is substantially perpendicular to said second portion.
3. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 1 wherein said segments are arranged
in elements of seven segments in order to selectively form arabic numerals.
4. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 1 wherein said means to slidably insert
and withdraw includes a plurality of motor means (53).
5. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 4 wherein each said motor means (53)
has a rotating shaft (54) that terminates in a pinion gear (56) and wherein a rack
(52) affixed to each said film (44) engages with said pinion gear (56) in order to
translate rotation of each said shaft (54) to movement of said film (44) to slidably
insert and withdraw each said film.
6. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 4 including control means to control
said plurality of motor means.
7. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 1 wherein said rear inner panes (32)
contrast with said face (22) and said films (44) match said face.
8. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 4 wherein each said motor means (62)
has a rotating shaft (64) that terminates in a roller (74) which engages with one
of said films in order to translate rotation of each said shaft to movement of said
film (44) to slidably insert and withdraw each said film.
9. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 1 wherein each said flexible film (44)
has a front edge to which is affixed a metal strip (84) so that movement of a magnet
(86) exterior to said face (22) will cause said film (44) to be slidably inserted
or withdrawn from said first portion (40) of said pocket (36).
10. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 1 wherein each said pocket (36) is
liquid tight and filled with a transparent liquid.
11. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 10 including at least one liquid reservoir
tank (98), said tank in fluid communication with at least one of said pockets (36),
and said tank arranged so that gravity draws said liquid from said tank into said
pocket.
12. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 11 wherein said pockets are fluidly
connected to each other so that gravity will draw fluid from said tank to keep all
said pockets filled.
13. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 10 wherein said liquid is resistant
to freezing and evaporation.
14. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 4 wherein each said motor means (114)
has an axially reciprocal shaft (116) and wherein said means to slidably insert and
withdraw includes an actuator arm (106) having two ends movable about a pivot (110),
said shaft (116) engaging one end (112) of said actuator arm, the opposite end (108)
of said actuator arm terminating in a magnet (104) and wherein a metal guide (103)
affixed to each said film (44) will move in response to movement of said magnet (104)
so that axial movement of said shaft (116) will translate to movement of said film
(44) to slidably insert and withdraw each said film.
15. A numeral display device as set forth in claim 14 wherein said magnet (104) is pivotally
connected to said actuator arm (106) and is allowed to slidably travel within a magnet
track (100) and wherein said metal guide (103) is allowed to travel in a track.
16. A numeral display device (20) having at least one visible face (22) which comprises
a plurality of segments, characterized in that:
each segment has a transparent, front, outer pane (30) and a spaced, parallel,
rear, inner pane (32), said outer pane and said inner pane forming a pocket (36),
a first portion (40) of said pocket being aligned with and visible in said face (22)
and a second portion (42) of said pocket which is not visible in said face (22); and
in that the device further comprises:
a plurality of flexible films (44), one said film received in each said pocket;
and
means to slidably insert and withdraw each said film from each said first portion
(40) of each said pocket (36), each said pocket adapted to guide each said film as
it travels therethrough, so that each said segment will either contrast with or match
said face (22).
1. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung (20)) mit zumindest einer, eine Vielzahl von Segmenten umfassenden
Sichtfläche (22), dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
- jedes Segment eine durchsichtige vorderseitige Aussenplatte (30) und eine beabstandete
parallele rückseitige Innenplatte (32) hat, wobei die benannte Aussen- und Innenplatte
eine Tasche (36) bilden, ein erster Abschnitt (40) der benannten Tasche in der benannten
Sichtfläche (22) ausgerichtet und darin sichtbar und ein zweiter Abschnitt (42) der
benannten Tasche in einem Winkel zu dem benannten ersten Abschnitt angeordnet ist,
und dass die benannte Vorrichtung ferner
- eine Vielzahl biegsamer Filme (44) enthält, wobei je einer der benannten Filme in
jede der benannten Taschen (36) aufgenommen wird, sowie
- Mittel, um jeden der benannten Filme gleitend in jeden der benannten ersten Abschnitte
jeder benannten Tasche einzuführen bzw. daraus zurückzuziehen, so dass jedes der benannten
Segmente mit der Sichtfläche (22) entweder kontrastiert oder übereinstimmt.
2. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 1, worin der benannte erste Abschnitt der
benannten Tasche im wesentlichen senkrecht zu dem benannten zweiten Abschnitt ist.
3. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 1, worin der benannten Segmente in Sieben-Segment-Einheiten
angeordnet sind, um wahlweise arabische Ziffern zu bilden.
4. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 1, worin der benannten Mittel zur gleitenden
Einführung und Zurückziehung eine Vielzahl von Antriebsmitteln (53) einschliessen.
5. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 4, worin jedes der benannten Antriebsmittel
(53) eine rotierende Welle (54) hat, die in einen Ritzelradantrieb (56) endet, und
worin eine an jedem der benannten Filme (44) befestigte Zahnstange (52) in den benannten
Ritzelradantrieb (56) einrastet, um die Drehbewegung jeder der benannten Wellen (54)
in eine Bewegung des benannten Filmes (44) umzusetzen, so dass jeder der benannten
Filme gleitend eingeführt und zurückgezogen wird.
6. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 4, die Steuerorgane einschliesst, um die
benannte Vielzahl von Antriebsmitteln zu steuern.
7. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 1, worin der benannten rückseitigen Innenplatten
(32) mit der benannten Sichtfläche (22) kontrastieren und die benannten Filme (44)
mit der benannten Sichtfläche übereinstimmen.
8. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 4, worin jedes der benannten Antriebsmittel
(62) eine rotierende Welle (64) hat, die in einer Walze (74) endet, die an einen der
benannten Filme ankoppelt, um die Drehbewegung jeder der benannten Wellen in eine
Bewegung des benannten Filmes (44) umzusetzen, so dass jeder der benannten Filme gleitend
eingeführt und zurückgezogen wird.
9. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 1, worin jeder der benannten biegsamen Filme
(44) eine Vorderkante hat, an der ein Metallstreifen (84) angebracht ist, so dass
die Bewegung eines Magneten (86) ausserhalb der benannten Sichtfläche (22) bewirkt,
dass der benannte Film (44) in den benannten ersten Abschnitt (40) der benannten Tasche
(36) gleitend eingeführt oder aus ihm zurückgezogen wird.
10. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 1, worin jede der benannten Taschen (36)
flüssigkeitsdicht und mit einer durchsichtigen Flüssigkeit gefüllt ist.
11. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 10, die zumindest einen Flüssigkeitsvorratsbehälter
(98) einschliesst, der in Flüssigverbindung mit zumindest einer der benannten Taschen
(36) steht und so angeordnet ist, dass die Schwerkraft die benannte Flüssigkeit von
dem benannten Behälter in die benannte Tasche zieht.
12. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 11, worin die benannten Taschen miteinander
in Flüssigverbindung stehen, so dass die Schwerkraft Flüssigkeit vom benannten Behälter
abzieht, um alle Taschen gefüllt zu halten.
13. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 10, worin die benannte Flüssigkeit einem
Gefrieren und Verdampfen widersteht.
14. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 4, worin jedes der benannten Antriebsmittel
(114) eine axial hin- und herbewegliche Welle (116) hat und die benannten Mittel zur
gleitenden Einführung und Zurückziehung einen Betätigungsarm (106) einschliessen,
dessen beide Enden um einen Zapfen (110) beweglich sind, wobei die benannte Welle
(116) ein Ende (112) des benannten Betätigungsarmes mitführt, während das engegengesetzte
Ende (108) des benannten Betätigungsarmes in einem Magneten (104) endet und ein an
jedem der benannten Filme (44) angebrachter Metallbügel (103) sich entsprechend der
Bewegung des benannten Magneten (104) bewegt, so dass die Axialbewegung der benannten
Welle (116) in eine Bewegung des benannten Filmes (44) umgesetzt wird und jeder der
benannten Filme gleitend eingeführt und zurückgezogen wird.
15. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung gemäss Anspruch 14, worin der benannte Magnet (104) drehbar
mit dem benannten Betätigungsarm (106) verbunden ist und gleitend in einer Magnetschiene
(100) laufen kann und worin der benannte Metallbügel (103) in einer Schiene laufen
kann.
16. Ziffernanzeigevorrichtung (20) mit zumindest einer Sichtfläche (22), die eine Vielzahl
von Segmenten umfasst und dadurch gekennzeichnet ist, dass
- jedes Segment eine durchsichtige vorderseitige Aussenplatte (30) und eine beabstandete
parallele rückseitige Innenplatte (32) hat, wobei die benannte Aussen- und Innenplatte
eine Tasche (36) bilden, ein erster Abschnitt (40) der benannten Tasche in der benannten
Sichtfläche (22) ausgerichtet und darin sichtbar ist und ein zweiter Abschnitt (42)
der benannten Tasche nicht in der benannten Sichtfläche (22) sichtbar ist; und dass
die Vorrichtung ferner
- eine Vielzahl biegsamer Filme (44) umfasst, wobei ein Film in jede der benannten
Taschen aufgenommen wird; und
- Mittel, um jeden der benannten Filme gleitend in jeden der benannten ersten Abschnitte
(40) jeder benannten Tasche (36) einzuführen bzw. daraus zurückzuziehen, wobei jede
der benannten Taschen so gestaltet ist, dass jeder der benannten Filme bei seinem
Durchlauf geführt wird, so dass jedes der benannten Segmente mit der benannten Sichtfläche
(22) entweder kontrastiert oder übereinstimmt.
1. Dispositif de visualisation numérique (20) ayant au moins une face visible (22) qui
comprend une pluralité de segments, caractérisé en ce que :
chaque segment a un panneau externe frontal et transparent (30), espacé d'un panneau
arrière parallèle interne (32), ledit panneau externe et ledit panneau interne formant
une poche (36), une première portion (40) de ladite poche étant alignée avec ladite
face (22) et visible dans ladite face et une seconde portion (42) de ladite poche
étant dans une relation angulaire avec ladite première portion; et en ce que ledit
dispositif comprend en outre
une pluralité de films flexibles (44), un dit film étant reçu dans chaque dite
poche (36); et
un moyen pour insérer et retirer d'une manière coulissante chaque dit film de ladite
première portion de chaque dite poche de manière à ce que chaque dit segment contraste
avec ladite face (22) ou corresponde à celle-ci.
2. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 1, où ladite
première portion de ladite poche est sensiblement perpendiculaire à ladite seconde
portion.
3. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 1, où lesdits
segments sont agencés dans des éléments de sept segments, afin de former sélectivement
les chiffres arabes.
4. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 1, où ledit
moyen pour insérer et retirer d'une manière coulissante comporte une pluralité de
moyens moteurs (53).
5. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 4, où chaque
dit moyen moteur (53) a un arbre rotatif (54) qui se termine par un pignon (56) et
où une crémaillère (52) fixée à chaque dit film (44) s'engage avec ledit pignon (56)
afin de transformer la rotation de chaque dit arbre (54) en mouvement dudit film (44),
afin d'insérer et de retirer d'une manière coulissante chaque dit film.
6. Dispositif de visualisation comme décrit dans la revendication 4, comportant un moyen
de commande pour commander ladite pluralité de moyens moteurs.
7. Dispositif de visualisation numérique selon la revendication 1, où lesdits panneaux
arrière internes (32) contrastent avec ladite face (22) et où ledit film (44) correspond
à ladite face.
8. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 4, où chaque
dit moyen moteur (62) a un arbre rotatif (64) qui se termine par un rouleau (74) qui
s'engage avec un desdits films afin de transformer la rotation de chaque dit arbre
en mouvement dudit film (44), afin d'insérer et de retirer d'une manière coulissante
ledit film.
9. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 1, où chaque
dit film flexible (44) a un bord avant auquel est fixée une bande métallique (84),
de sorte que le mouvement de l'aimant (86) externe à ladite face (22) va provoquer
l'insertion ou le retrait dudit film (44) d'une manière coulissante de ladite première
portion (40) de ladite poche (36).
10. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 1, où chaque
dite poche (36) est étanche aux liquides et remplie d'un liquide transparent.
11. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 10, comprenant
au moins un réservoir de liquide (98), ledit réservoir de liquide étant en communication
fluide avec au moins une desdites poches (36) et ledit réservoir étant agencé pour
que la gravité tire ledit liquide dudit réservoir dans ladite poche.
12. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 11, où lesdites
poches sont mutuellement en communication fluide, de sorte que la gravité va tirer
le fluide dudit réservoir et maintenir toutes lesdites poches remplies.
13. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 10, où ledit
liquide est résistant à la congélation et à l'évaporation.
14. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 4, où chaque
dit moyen moteur (114) a un arbre (116) pouvant effectuer axialement un mouvement
alternatif, où ledit moyen pour insérer et retirer d'une manière coulissante comporte
un bras d'actionnement (106) ayant deux extrémités mobiles autour d'un pivot (110),
ledit arbre (116) s'engageant avec une extrémité (112) dudit bras d'actionnement,
l'extrémité opposée (108) dudit bras d'actionnement se terminant par un aimant (104),
et où un guide métallique (103) fixé à chaque dit film (44) va se déplacer en réponse
au mouvement dudit aimant (104) de sorte que le mouvement axial dudit arbre (116)
sera transformé en mouvement dudit film (44) pour insérer et retirer d'une manière
coulissante chaque dit film.
15. Dispositif de visualisation numérique comme décrit dans la revendication 14, où ledit
aimant (104) est relié en pivotement audit arbre d'actionnement (106) et peut se déplacer
d'une manière coulissante dans une piste magnétique (100) et où ledit guide métallique
(103) peut se déplacer dans une piste,
16. Dispositif de visualisation numérique (20) ayant au moins une face visible (22) qui
comprend une pluralité de segments, caractérisé en ce que :
chaque segment a un panneau externe frontal et transparent (30), espacé d'un panneau
arrière parallèle interne (32), ledit panneau externe et ledit panneau interne formant
une poche (36), une première portion (40) de ladite poche étant alignée avec ladite
face (22) et visible dans celle-ci et une seconde portion (42) de ladite poche n'étant
pas visible dans ladite face (22); et en ce que le dispositif comprend en outre :
une pluralité de films flexibles (44), un dit film étant reçu dans chaque dite
poche; et
un moyen pour insérer et retirer d'une manière coulissante chaque dit film de chaque
dite première portion (40) de chaque dite poche (36), chaque dite poche étant agencée
pour guider chaque dit film à mesure qu'il la traverse, de sorte que chaque dit segment
va contraster avec ladite face (22) ou lui correspondre.